Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 6:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Diane, I agree with you 100%, if that happened the way you say it did. I would gather the parents of the other students you mentioned and call to schedule a pow wow.

Posted by heathermc (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 6:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I WOULD PROBABLY JUST GO IN AND TAKE IT DOWN MYSELF AND CONFRONT THE TEACHER. SHE HAS NO RIGHT TO TELL YOUR CHILD TO LIE. I THOUGHT WE WERE TRYING TO TEACH OUR KIDS TO BE GOOD.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 9, 2008 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Last week there was an article about searches for drugs in school. A majority consensus was that school children didn't have constitutional rights. Everyone said whip their butts, tell them what to do and so on. I was in the minority that even students have a reasonable right to privacy. No you want to give 10 year olds freedom of speech on an issue that they cannot participate in. Next let's hear their opinions on legalizing drugs, alcohol sales to minors, and abortion for teens without parental consent. Come on. We are talking about children. 95% of the time a child comes home and tells an account of an issue they think will inflame their parents toward a teacher, the children usually skew the facts. I know I spent enough time in parent teacher conferences that I should have gotten tenure at school. Not calling any child a liar here but, kids will be kids!

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 6:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Diane, thank you for bringing this issue to light. Those children should not have been put in that position. The same would apply if Sen. McCain had won, and I would be just as adamant about it. This was inappropriate and I think this should be a good opportunity to find out if our Supt. of Education is in control, or letting the schools run on auto-pilot. Please let us know if you see any signs of leadership. Sure seems like the biginnings of indoctrination to me. Indoctrination needs to happen at home, not at school.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 7:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks for the support from all of you. I'm just sad that all of the article was not published. Not only did she make them write the article, she also made them watch Obama's acceptance speech and take a test on it. I think they should have had to watch McCains concession speech as well, to see the proper way to react. I think McCain did an excellent job in keeping a civilized end to the election. I now have gone to the school, but the principal was not in Thursday or Friday. If he is not back by Monday, I will go to the B.O.E. and see what can be done about it. I got my son's letter Thursday before I left the school after my meeting. I think this was totally "Anti-American" and "Anti-Christian", which was an issue during the entire election. Anti-American because he was denied his Constitutional right to freedom of speech, and Anti-Christian because he was forced to lie on a piece of paper. Thank you for all of the comments. I have now found out all the facts after visiting the school and I found that he was exactly truthful, as I knew he was. (Mr. Graves)My son is a christian with a heart after God and I hope he shines in his glory.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Steven, can you see the not see the difference in a drug search and a one- sided opinion based class room paper?
I do not disagree with giving the assignment to write the paper or to watch his speech, but I do not agree with being TOLD how to view the out come of the election (or go to the Principal's office, that is intimidating ). The teacher in question is African American, if a teacher were white and they told her class to write a paper that did not think Obama should have been elected, the "race word" would fly! Ms.Knight get a group together lets go to the school, Mr. Obama ran on his promise to RAISE THE BAR for teachers
Lets see what happens! Good for you and your son for raising this issue!

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No one should use their position to infringe on the rights of others. If the child was being forced to write something they didn't believe in, that is indeed wrong. But I do agree with kwsgraves in it does seem that some people only want rights protected when they agree with it.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 9, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

O.K., I just read Mr. Graves comment a little closer and he thinks I am suggesting that my son should have a voiced opinion on the presidential. If he chooses, that is his right, but Mr. Graves, if you will read a little closer......What upset me was the fact that the assignment was a REQUIREMENT! I don't personally think that the students should be asked to do assignments on politics at all in 4th grade. He's not 10, he's 9. The only thing that most of these students know about the presidential election, is who their parents are voting for. My son, nor any other 4th grader, in my opinion, has no business discussing the policies of the presidential candidates or which of these policies they agree with. They are 9 and 10, they should only be learning the basics, such as the name of the presidents, not forced to write them "love letters".
If they are forced to do the assignment, it should be fair to all and instead of writing Mr. Obama a love letter, the McCain supporters should have been able to write a letter to Mr. McCain thanking him for his hard efforts and let him know how much they admire the years of devotion to his country. After all he has dedicated almost his entire life to his country, and that should be commended by anyone. I have an Uncle that has served in 2 wars and was headed to Afganistan for the 3rd and was found to have heart trouble. He does it willingly and gladly and with much pride. Anyone who volunteers his life for his country is a hero to me. The McCain supporters should have had a right to congradulate their own candidate on a race well run. If they weren't given the right to freedom of speech, then the assignment should have been aborted all together. I choose the latter. Children are too young to face such issues, and too young to be forced into such conflict of interest as this is bound to cause between classmates. Young people are usually of a competitive nature anyway...Why rub it in?

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 9, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

1. Thank you, I served 13 years. 1985-1998. 2. You are telling us to dumb kids down and not discuss politics of any proportion. My dad and I sat and watched NBC nightly news when I was 4. I remember sitting in silence watching the names of dead soldiers at the end of broadcasts. I remember watching the watergate hearings. Growing up watching politics at 4 until now. My mother was heavily involved with the Alabama legislature and benefits for the Alabama Retired State Employees Association. My dad was a UNION member until he retired. I didn't always subscribe to my parents ideas of politics and I regret it. I actually registerd as a republican and am ashamed of that. But, now that I am over 40 and have seen the light and raised three children things are different. But, I am straying. I remember doing assignments on Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan. I didn't like the assignments. Had nothing to do with the candidates. 3. Last, life isn't always fair. Kids have to do things they don't like. But, if you feel you will make some grand accomplishment, more power to you. Seems you may be creating more drama for a 9 year old than the original assignment. But go ahead and blame someone. I seriously doubt your kid will remember this in 6 months. But they will remember mama butting heads. As for your son being a christian, well if he is mature enough to make that decision and walk in God's light, then, this really isn't an issue for him. He knows right from wrong and as all parents know THEIR child will do no wrong. I just think mama may be more upset than jr. But I'm not in your shoes so it's my opinion based on your comments. No animosity towards you. I pray you do the right thing for YOUR child and teach a lesson that he will see as a positive one.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 1:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Steven,
Quess what? We on the right, (Us gun toting, church going, non- Obama , MCCAIN/PALIN, supporting ,Alabama majority).
are tird of being "passive" on issues that are important to us. In case you didn't read Ms. Knight's statement, she did verify that the assignment was just as her Son has said. Then she decided to pursue the matter.Kids will be kids. Since you don't know this child and I do, let me assure you, Jr. was upset for having to do that assignment and not for Mama going to the school. Jr. is aware that Mom did her job and verified his complaint before taking any further action.
I do agree with you that children should know about the news issues, including the election process. And I have no problem with the assignment. I do have a problem with the students being told to write a "love letter" in support of Her candidate. The intimidation factor has no place in a 4th grade class room. With that being said, what if the assignment was to write a letter saying that Obama should not have been elected? We both know an issue would have been raised.
You are out of line by trying to intimidate Ms. Knight from standing up for her child. Our party is where it is,(or maybe your party got this far) because for years we have let the left wing liberals have their way and I for one and tird of it .
I resent the statement, "if your child is a christian, he shouldn't have a problem with this". Do you think a conservative Christians shouldn't have a problem on a matter just because a liberal Christian says they shouldn't?
As a Mama of three myself, I would be very upset about this and I would make my concerns known. If this teacher did use any kind of intimidation, to any child for any reason, she should be held accountable.
Ms. Knight many people will support you, but if not, don't feel ashamed to question this matter. Mr. Graves thinks your son will only, "Remember Mama butting heads". I think he is wrong. I have a 26 year old son and on more than one occasion I "Butted Heads" with someone on his behalf. He may not remember the reasons I did but he remembers , "Mama (and Dad) stood up for him.
Hang in there, We can't allow the liberals to silence us anymore!!

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 1:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ms. Knight, Did you happen to see the class room video tonight on FOX news that shows a teacher, (African American)questioning a student (A White student) about why she felt McCain should be president? When the child gives her reasons, the teacher then tells the little girl that McCain wanted to keep the troops in Iraq for 100 years. I am sick of people distorting what he said on that matter. She continues with her intimidation. Most likely nothing will become of this but if the tables were turned and a White teacher had pulled this stunt against an African American child-- Liberals would be screaming.
Just thought you would like to know this seems to be going on in other places as well!

Posted by Lilin31 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I for one am with Mrs. Knigtht. Something needs to be done, but I do not believe it will happen. If some kind of punishment is dealt to the teacher, the first thing that will be thrown up is that she is being punished because she is black. I am so sorry Mrs. Knight that your child of 9 yrs. was even put through something like.

Posted by Lilin31 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 6:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry left that off the end of my comment!

Posted by getbizi (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 7:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was picking my daughter up at the Intermediate school last year during BLACK HISTORY MONTH and noticed a BLACK HISTORY MONTH poster hanging outside the office. Now, this was almost 10 months before the election and guess whos face was on the BLACK HISTORY MONTH poster? Barack Obama's!
I am sick and tired of the brain-washing in this country in the name of DIVERSITY. Ms. Knight, stand up and be accounted for and let us know if you need any help.

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

kw, SHAME ON YOU! Diane, you GO GIRL! getbizi, RIGHT ON!

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 9:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, I just stirred the pot, got folks talking, didn't it? Did my job. :)

Posted by andapanda333 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Graves, it was very presumptious of you to suggest that all children lie to their parents. Maybe your children did/do; however, mine does not lie to me or exaggerate the truth to anger me. I've yet to be called for a parent teacher conference, nor have any of the parents of the children with which my child is friends.

As for the teacher involved, I have to wonder if the assignment would have been the same if McCain would have won the election. I hazard to guess that it would not. Obama supporters made the presidential election a race war. One radio celebrity showed that most supporters didn't have any knowledge of Obama.

It amazes me that the teacher can force children to assume a political position with which they disagree without consequences to the teacher, yet if that same teacher had forced the children to pray it would have come close to a Holy War.

Ms. Knight you are completely justified in standing up for your child. God gives us the gift of children and we are to love, care for and protect this gift. If we don't, who will? Mr. Graves, maybe if you had spent more time protecting your children you would have spent less time with the principal.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I cared enough to talk to my child's teachers. Being a single parent brings on more issues. But it all turned out the way it did. As this issue will be forgotton in 6 mos. I've never seen a cild in 41 years that didn't always tell the truth. Sometimes they tell the truth and it embarrasses the parents. You would be surprised what teachers hear. But I am pleased to know there are so many parents with this passion for student's rights. Last week some people commenting on another article said children should have NO rights. Guess that issue is for your agenda only. Glad to know so many honest little Jesuses are being brought into school. If you all have perfect children, then thank God he made perfect parents like you. God bless.

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

kw, you gettin' paid for these comments? You just turned a complete "about face" on your last one.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dude, some things are better left unsaid. And, you should keep somethings to yourself. LOL ;)~

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 12:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

getbizi,
you said you had to pick up your child during Black HIstory Month last year 02/08. The same teacher that is in charge of Black History Month at CIS is the same teacher that commanded this assignment. Her initials are P.S.

Posted by REK1138 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 12:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Interesting, but not surprising. I was a public school teacher for five years and was literally threatened by both the NEA and a host of other teacher's unions for my refusal to join. These weren't direct threats, but a month did not go by when some in-school union rep didn't corner me with horror stories about teacher's losing their homes, their retirement, their license from some disgruntled student's lawsuit. As a result, 95% of our teachers were in unions that were constantly pushing a liberal, Democratic party agenda. As a result, two thirds of the teachers in our school were button wearing, sign toting democrats. I worked in two different school systems in two different states and found this to be common in both.

Furthermore, I was often shocked and outraged over the approved curriculum and particularly the approved textbooks, many which didn't simply leave out facts and information but distorted the truth! Despite my love of teaching, my conscience would not allow me to remain in the public school system and today I am a proud parent of five home schooled children.

Many of our schools (and I am not ready to say ALL yet) have ceased to be places of learning and have turned into indoctrination centers, pushing agendas at the expense of classical learning. We no longer teach civics and government, we teach multiculturalism. As a result, young voters have no clue how our government works and are easily swayed by empty rhetoric and a flashy presentation.

I could rant for days on this but won't. Let me simply say, Ms. Knight, your concerns are valid but there are options and alternatives to public school.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Steven, looks like you are in the minority here--AGAIN. Not one person has claimed to be rasing a little "JESUS" and that was not necessary and I for one resent you saying it.
To everyone who has responded to this issue, look how many of us agree but when we push an issue, people ,such as Steven, try to undermine our concerns and they try to shut us up. Most consertative people don't like to make too much noise for fear of a back-lash from liberal, left wing thinkers. If consertatives stood together as a group, prayer might still be in schools, gun rights might not be threatened, marriage between MAN and WOMAN might not be up for debate. I could go on and on , but I'm sure you see my point. Dianne, standing up for this issue might lesson the chance of this happening again. It makes me wonder what goes on in class rooms that we never know about. May God protect our kids while they are in school and may God continue to bless our county with the MANY GREAT teachers we have!

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Very good point REK. If you don't like it there is always an alternative.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, as for the alternative, Mr. Graves. I just completed my alternative. I will not have my child or any other for that matter forced out of the school system. In case you haven't noticed, like ccof said...you are in the minority here. This wasn't as much about the McCain/Obama issue as it was about my child being forced to put his beliefs on the back burner and make someone happy by writing a paper on the candidate of THEIR choice. If you are going to bring 9 year olds into politics, you should let them make their own choices and voice their own opinions, not yours. You said that you were watching political news from the age of 4, and that you knew the issues by their age....so if they are expected to have so much knowlege of political issues, then why don't we make them registered voters? I can tell you why, because they don't have enough knowlege to do these things yet. My son is only 9 years old Mr. Graves,and I also have a 6 year old daughter and a 5 year old son. I don't want them worrying about the political issues yet. That is one of the problems with society now. We try to make children into adults instead of letting them just be kids. I hardly discuss politics around my children, much less with them. Instead of having my children campaign for the candidate of MY choice, we spend our time at ballparks, camp-outs, and Church activities. I have often missed some of the youthful innocence we are born with and I wonder if I tried to grow up too fast myself. I pray that my children will cherish every childhood moment and not take one single minute for granted. There is plenty of time for politics later in life. They can't register to vote until 18 anyway. Give them their foundation and their values now and help to better equip them with the knowlege to make their own political decisions when they are of age to cast their own ballot.
Update..........The "love letters" to Obama have now been taken down out of the hallway of CIS, and the test that they had to take on the Obama acceptance speech has been stricken from the record. Thank God!!!! Now let's have an assignment on issues that are based more on age appropriate matters. I'm all for having opinions, but if you ask someone to voice them, let them be their own.

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Really? If McCain had won, they wouldn't have had to do the same assignment? Then why did kwsgraves and I both have to write Carter and Reagan when we were kids? I was NOT happy about the letter to Reagan since apparently (much to my parents dismay) I was born a Democrat, but I did it just the same. I don't know what they mean exactly by a 'love' letter but our assignment was to congratulate the President-Elect. I did it even though I was NOT happy about President-Elect Reagan. It didn't scar me for life.

And Mr. Graves, again, you are right. Where are those people who said kids have no rights?

I'm not attacking anyone on here, but if he doesn't like Obama, then he could just say 'congratulations', as I did for Reagan. It's called being a gracious loser, as I had to be in the past and most likely, will have to be in the future. If he wants to write McCain to tell him what a great person he is (and McCain is a great person, they both are), then why can't he do that on his own? I also wrote Carter in 1980 expressing my condolences.

And that's all I have to say about this.

Posted by Likeitreallymatters (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think he should have done a letter to McCain thanking him for running such a negative campaign, because it really helped obama win.

Posted by getbizi (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

KS, you seem to have caved in to California style family values since you moved to the Left Coast. I remember in high school in the 80's, a guy moved in to our school from Vegas. He told me how they had a smoking section for students in Vegas, drug deals, and gangs. I can see how that kind of dogma has influenced your outlook on life.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dianne, I am glad you succeded in your endeavors. I was merely stirring the pot and provoking conversation. My children are 21, 20, and 18. One teaches children. She and I do not always agree on every subject. But we don't shoot at each other as did Alabama and LSU fans did this weekend. Two being killed. But hey, they had their gun rights. I'm sure they had the right to kill over something so important as a ballgame. Wonder if they were products of our public school system. I agree this assignment was uncalled for. I NEVER said it wasn't. And to you Crystal, sorry you took offense, but when a parent says their child NEVER lies, well that child has to be perfect. Only one man walked this earth without lying. Or any other sin for that matter. But, apparently there are some up and comers in grade school.

Posted by andapanda333 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

KIKI, you have a great point about writing to McCain!! Why then did the teacher not give the children the option of writing to either Obama or McCain? I'll tell you why... as is the case with most Liberal Demos, the teacher appears to be trying to make everyone conform to a mold so that we are all alike. Oooopppps... wait doesn't that sound familiar? Ever heard of a man named Marx and a grand idea called Socialism???

Further, not only are we VERY clear on Mr. Graves political stance, I believe we received some insight into his religious beliefs. I've never know a Christian to profess to be raising "Little Jesuses". Mr. Graves, I don't think any of us think we are raising the Son of the Almighty God as there is and will be only one! However, if you mean to say that some of us are raising our children to FOLLOW in the footsteps of Jesus Christ...THEN I AGREE ABSOLUTELY.

Posted by Lilin31 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Again with insults. Shakes my head. I am so glad that the letters were took down and the tests stricken. But what I want to know is what action was taken against the teacher for threatening the children?

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sounds like you're a little defensive as well as judgemental. Why must you question my christian beliefs to further your argument. As far as Marxism that and Socialism have nothing to do with this issue. If anyone here has a child that has NEVER lied please speak up. But, panda darling keep up the attacks. Shows your fear without faith. Now, again, I am glad you succeded Dianne. God bless you.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Steven, how did you somehow slip the gun thing in on this conversation?That has nothing to do with the assignment issue. KIKI, The problem wasn't the assignment, it was the intimidation factor used by the teacher. Writing to congratulate him would have been fine. It could have been done by something as simple as this: Mr. Obama, Contragulation on winning this election. The assignment probably would not have gotten a good grade though. For goodness sake, can anyone not understand that this teacher threatend to send these 9 year old students to the office if they didn't write what she thought the "love letter" should say? Parents have no control of the class room behind closed doors.As it just so happened, this teacher decided to post these OUTSIDE HER DOOR!!--
Steven, I'm glad that you choose not to own a gun. . If someone is worried about someone legally owning a gun they should be more worried about the people that illegally
own them. Pass all the gun bands you want, it is not going to protect you or your family against the people that would use them to kill someone anyway.
Word for thought, whoever killed someone over this ball game,probably should not have or did not a license to have one to begin with!

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Crystal, when or where did I say I chose not to own a firearm? Some of your relatives and I used to hunt together. I merely stated my children and I disagree on subjects. They are all three adults. But, since you mentioned it again, how about the eight year old,(third grader) killing two adults. After the dad sought advice from his pastor to even give the child a gun. He taught the child how to use it to shoot prarie dogs. But I guess father and son didn't see eye to eye. But they were exercising their rights. I served my country for 13 years so WE all have these freedoms and the freedom to disagree on these issues. I haven't thrown any intentional insults. But this "what if" issue keeps coming up. Well, IF frogs had guns there would be less snakes in the world.

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kw, if frogs had guns, we wouldn't be eatin' frog legs anymore.

Diane, wayda go! I'm glad things turned out and justice prevailed.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dude, maybe so, but consider the size of the frogs and the guns.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kiki,
I take it you didn't read the article very closely. He was forced to tell him not only congradulations, but he was told to tell him how happy he was that he was his president and how much he liked him. He did not have the option of just saying congradulations. I would have been fine with that, hence the statement "nobody likes a sore loser". I just thank God that I never had a teacher that put me in either situation. Maybe you should sent those teachers a letter expressing your frustration. Also, no they would not have had to do the same assignment. This particular teacher is the only one in CIS who thought this assignment was appropriate. The only reason I know that is because this assignment was discussed amongst some of the teachers before the outcome of the election was ever known and they (all apparantly but one) had decided that it was not the best idea, because it was bound to open up a very rotton can of worms. It didn't take a fortune teller, did it? Please go back and read the article and post your comments when you know the facts.
Lillian31, nothing, absolutely nothing was done to this teacher. I have always liked this teacher and she is entitled to her own opinion, but it is just that....her opinion. She was told that it was not an appropriate decision for an assignment and to not make the same mistake again. I was told that if my son was treated any different than the others because of this, that I was to call immediatly and the teacher would suffer reprecussions. My son came home today and said that he had an awesome day at school. I hope this will be the same every day. I will definately be watching closer to my children's assignments from here on out. I'm just happy to know that my son has listened when I tell him that there is nothing he can't tell me, because some of the children in the class, when I called their parents to discuss this issue with them, had been too ashamed to even tell their Moms and Dads. Thanks for the support all of you, and even for the comments if disagreement. That is what freedom of speech is all about, isn't it? Enjoy it, and pray that you are never denied your constitutional rights.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As for the gun issue... My Daddy has several guns when I was growning up. He had the sense to keep them locked up. Nobody could get them out of the gun safe except for he and my Mom. My brother could when he got way older. I think that is a pretty safe method of gun control in the family. Second, I have heard of people for killing for less than ballgame scores. I have heard of people killing people with things besides guns. Let's face it, if someone is going to kill somebody, then they are going to find a way to do it. People use broken beer bottles, drowning, burning, stabbing with knives, they strangle people, poison them, blunt trauma, etc....Are we going to outlaw glass bottles, hammers, baseball bats, lighters, knives, and rope also? My entire family I think is in the NRA. I'm O.K. with stricter laws, but lets not go overboard. You're not going to stop violence. It's part of biblical prophecy, and we're just going to have to try and keep "ours" as safe as possible and try to teach them the way in which they should go. I personally don't even own any real guns (unless you count BB/Pellet guns). I don't expect everyone else not to though.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Very well spoken, Dianne. I am GLAD you resolved your issue aimicalbly. God bless you and your family.

Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 5:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kw, I seen some perty big frogs!

Posted by mimsjr (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 5:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

way to go SIS. love you always stand up for what you believe is right

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Getbizi, I went back and reread this whole debate, and you sparked a memory. In the 80's we had a smoking section right outside Ivan Smith's class. Then they moved it to the picnic tables right outside Ms. Halls trailer. We had shotguns in the gun racks of pickups. Girls wore tight jeans and boys were boys. I even had to write a paper on Mummar Quadafi. Right before we killed his daughter. But politics of war was taught in school then. As an Army officer I later understood the politics of war that I had begun seeing and hearing about from childhood. I remember the F-4's flying over our house and my dad explaining about war. As an Army officer I understood my duty to God, Country, and family. Sometimes I confused the three. But I knew all the liberties I grew up with and being free, wasn't free. So, if my free opinion, and I never tried to silence one here,(mine or other's), somehow makes you think I am a Godless democrat, I'm glad you are free to express that view.

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

getbizi - I see you ignored where I said I was apparently BORN a Democrat. Living in SoCal didn't influence my opinions as I was born and raised in Central Alabama and turned out to be a left wing liberal in spite of that.

dknight - I already said he shouldn't be forced to say something he didn't believe in. I was saying he should've been allowed to just say Congratulations.

andapanda333 - I wasn't given the option to write to Carter or Reagan in 1980. I HAD to write to Reagan. I CHOSE to write to Carter on my own.

Ya'll have fun with this. I'm done.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 5:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Steven, Do you support gun rights? It didn't sound like it to me when I read the following statement:"...but hey they have their gun rights, quess they can kill over something so important as a ball game...". Were you using sarcasim against gun rights or do you really think owning fire arms gives any one the right to kill... just to kill? As far as an 8 year old killing two people, it far beyond thinking as to why an 8 year old would even have access to a gun. Just because someone owns a gun, doesn't mean they have the right to kill. Mr. Graves I feel as if I am talking to a two year old on this issue!!
The other night you stated you had, "known me for years," and now you say you know my family. I did some research and I know who you are as well. Do you think you should give parenting advice? Are you sure you were really involved with your children's school? Since you are so political, can you vote? Could you own a gun if you chose?
Just wondering---

Back to the teacher subject, this same teacher got her students to participate in an Obama dance skit at school-- once again one sided activity!

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

KIKI, being born a Democrate doesn't make a left winged liberal--STUPIDITY does! Just my opinion as I have the right to it.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Crystal, yes to all of your questions. Your research was confined to gossip and not public record. I have had my rights for years. As for parenting, two of three aint bad. One strayed, not because he wasn't taught right. All three were raised in church. One went to college on a cheerleading scholarship, and now teaches. She will graduate college soon. I love my kids no matter what they choose to do. They are grown now. I would suggest if you want to go on a slander ride you might want to look in the mirror before we make this ugly. God knows where my heart and faith lies. And if you wish go to the registrars office and see that I have voted in every election in my lifetime, with the exception of one. God bless you for listening to gossip.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Crystal calling kiki stupid was uncalled for.

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 6:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ALRIGHT!! The Chillmaster says "cool down" folks. This is gettin' nowhere fast!

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 6:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cain't we all just get along? MA! .. get mah gun! Whar's ASE? His wisdom and words always soothes the beast in me ...HAR! WOOHOOOO!

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 6:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ms. Cofer - I have never attacked you or anyone else on this site, I would appreciate the same consideration from you. Thank you Mr. Graves.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dude, I think he was banned. Or he was spent after the election.

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 6:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He wasn't banned. On one post he said he was done with the paper all together.

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 7:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Diane: I'm glad that things have made somewhat of a turnaround in your son's situation at school. I believe that that there should be some type of disciplinary action toward the teacher, otherwise this will happen again during the inauguration. Can you IMAGINE the pressure that your son's class will be put under to write some sort of adulation for the new president then? If this is swept under the rug then nothing will have been accomplished. Our Supt. of Education may very well be carrying out some sort of discipline, but if not then we need this information for future reference.

CCOF was right about the reference to the school teacher that ridiculed a young girl that was in favor of McCain, whose father was in Iraq. Not only ridiculed, but brow beat. Lets not allow this to happen in Chilton Co. schools. It will if we let it. So, where does our Supt. of Education stand? We shall see.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Graves, no one slandered anyone, I merely ask you questions. Actually I know nothing of your children, you gave that info on your own. Mr. Graves, you have the right to respond to any issue you would like but you have really offended several people here and on other threads. Not everyone wants to hear you go on rants about every issue.
You seem to have a lot of knowledge about a lot of things it is a shame that you have be on the far left of every issue.
KIKI, I wasn't calling you stupid-- just the far left views you have.

Posted by KikiSquigglebottom (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 7:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd like to point out I haven't called anyone's far right views stupid. And you have offended by calling peoples opinions stupid. And since the right wing can't seem to play nice, I, too, am now done with this paper.

Posted by NoSugar (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 7:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, let me live up to my screen name here. I believe if we would all just stop being polite and say what we really mean the world would be a better place. Now that is not to say we should speak every thought that enters our heads. But really why would you want to congratulate or write a love letter to some one you do not support or like? Isn't that being pretentious? The thought that the teacher called it a love letter is rather sickening to me. I believe the students should have been given an option of what to write about, not forced to write as if they believe in something they dont believe in. I am not concerned about this being a violation of my childrens rights because I am one of those parents that believes in the basic childs bill of rights, as long as they have food, clothing, shelter and are not being abused in any way that is all the rights they have. But I see this as a violation of the trust we put in our educators to teach our children and help them learn to be a good citizen, who will at some point form their own opinions, make their own decisions, and be a productive member of society. I believe a public apology should be issued for this incident. I can see the reasoning for the comment that was made about Socialism, especially after Obama said he wants to spread the wealth around. I had seriously considered voting for him and did not make up my mind until the last month. That comment was why he lost my vote. That goes against every principal this country was founded and built upon. And let me say I have followed Obama since the Clintons introduced him many years ago at the convention. If I met him tomorrow I would not congratulate him as I if I voted for him nor would I be rude, I would likely be civil and ask him some questions. I have rambled on but as members of this community we should protest when teachers try to impose beliefs into our children and advise them to lie. We should also stand up for what is right and support those people who do like Ms. Knight and Mr. D. Cousin Crystal and my old school friend Steve, please agree to disagree!

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 8:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NoSugar: That was very well said. We agree a lot more than we disagree!

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

nosugar- my thoughts exactly!

I have been following all of these comments very closely, and have been very intrigued by some of your responses. All in all, I actually had asked for the teacher to apologize to the entire class, not just my son (which she did neither of the two). Like I said earlier, children are of a competitive nature anyway. When they are found to be right, they like to be acknowleged in that fact. An apology would have made me much happier, but I am praying and believing that she will see the other side of spectrum, and see the error of her ways. She did tell the vice principal that she had seen where she had done nothing wrong, and that unnerves me. I will keep her in my prayers, as well as the entire educational system in my prayers. These are the people we trust to educate our children and help us to prepare them for the world ahead. I'm not sure about you, (well most of you I am sure of LOL), but we should be teaching our children how to find their own way, and not show them dictatorship by forcing them to choose our ways.

Posted by chilton77 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is just the beginning folks...... I am so sick of everyone being so political and so scared to hurt someone's feelings that people sugar coat everything instead of telling it like it is. I am not racist- by far, let me clear that up first- but I am so sick of hearing about black history this and black history that. It's everywhere, TV, schools, papers, etc... and not just during February. It seems every other day I am hearing about it and it is months away! You know, if we ever got a "white history month" we would be called racists. And don't even ask me when I think that month should be because I could really care less! All of this is so ridiculus. Nearly every black person is walking around like they OWN the place just because Obama is our next president and it is going to cause nothing but problems. Whites are going to get sick of blacks puffing out their chests and blacks will get sick of whites and call us racists and BAM- let the Race Wars begin! It will be between the blacks and whites then all that'll be left are the mexicans. I guess it's a good thing 99% of the stuff in this country already caters to them. What is this country coming to?????

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Somehow this teacher has got to be shown that it is not her job to instill her political views into these very impressionable young children. Teachers need to TEACH and not indoctrinate. It doesn't surprise me that she thinks that she has done nothing wrong. I wonder if she would have thought that the kids had done something wrong if they declined to write a "love letter" to Mr. Obama? Apparently so, as the kids felt intimidated to write it. I still want to know the position on this subject of the Board of Education and the Superintendant. If they think this is proper behavior of our teachers then we need to know it, before the next election. We need to know if they are leaders, or lap dogs.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

November, I think the teacher threatend to send the children to the principal if they refused to do it. This was the intimidation factor that concerned me more than the assignment itself! Probably nothing will be done, that is usually what happens.
CCOF

Posted by bmaze (Brent Maze) on November 10, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ASE was not banned.

Posted by chilton77 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Of course nothing will happen to the teacher. And that is a shame too. She had no right making the students do this. If that was a black child that came home and told his parents that his white teacher made them write a love letter to McCain there would have been a lawsuit slapped on the BOE faster than you can say "Obama".

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chilton, I'm not sure if you saw the comment I posted early where I stated that this same teacher had her children do an "OBAMA dance" in class as well. I'm sure the children did not have a problem with that and I am sure it was fun for them. The way the media portrayed OBAMA as more of a star than as a Presidental front runner, got totally out of hand. This is just one teacher with one class of students, I wonder how many more teachers used their position to promote their own political views (on either canidate).

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on November 10, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ASE was not banned? Hmmm ... maybe he got a position on Obama's staff and has moved into the White House!

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 9:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have had racist views and voiced my opinion before. It hurt no one but me. There will only be a race issue if we make one. This teacher, as I have learned, made a huge mistake. She will probably make another one. I hope not. But sometimes these issues will take care of themselves. Patience is my weakest point. But as Ms. Knight stated, this issue has been resolved. I'm glad. I do think there should be a reprimand, but life isn't always fair. We all have to live with disappointments. At least this was stopped. As Nov stated wait until Jan or Feb and this teacher will do something similar. As far as I can tell this is now part of our dark history in education.

Posted by chilton77 (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No, I did not see your comment about the "Obama" dance. I can only guess what that looked like.... I totally agree- I think the only reason why he won is because of the media. I know several black families- devout hard core church going families against abortion- who voted for him for one reason and one reason only and that just isn't right! People did not use their values and beliefs to vote and that is a very scary thing.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 9:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dude, they haven't move into the white house yet, we still have a few more weeks of "life as we know it".
CHILTON, when Colin Powell, whom I have nothing but respect for,(until now),endorsed Obama that said all I needed to about the race issue in this election--

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 10:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So, Ccof you lost respect for a decorated war veteran because he didn't support your candidate. Real smart.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 10, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

talk to y'all in the morning. I can't wait to see what other comments are left throughout the night. I will still be looking for the apology to the class. I will find out tomorrow I guess. I'll keep y'all posted.

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 10, 2008 at 11:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Godspeed Ms. Knight.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 12:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Graves, I am not talking to you anymore-- To anyone else that may not have understood my comment about Colin Powell, let me clarify, I said, ..."When Colin Powell, with whom I HAVE nothing but respect for, (until now), endorsed Obama....". The key word is HAVE, I did not say I lost all respect for him, his decision to back Obama when one of the key differences between a decorated war veteran and the most liberal senator we have is the Iraq war. Yeah, I see him a little different now! Again SG, if I were talking to you I'd say again, I'm tird of hearing your comment about everything. I quess you place more interest in my comments than I do in yours. CCOF

Posted by kwsrgraves (Steven Graves) on November 11, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nah, I just like pulling your chain. Besides the word is tired, not tird. Sounds like feces. And g for guess not q for guess. But since you aren't adr me, then continue your illiterate quest. ;)~ LOL Don't take this garbage so personal.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 1:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Someone please tell Graves to check his own post for misspelled words. Since he is pointing out mine, here are some of his that I noticed earlier but I really want some slack on my spelling or type O's so I didn't point them out when I saw them.. At 4:50 pm above, the word is AIMICABLY, not AIMICALBLY. At 9:32 pm above, what does CILD mean or spell, matter of fact, that whole sentence makes no sense. At 2:16 pm (above) the word is SUCCEEDED not SUCCEDED. Graves is exactly how he was described to me,-Arrogant and big mouthed. Glad he is is Vegas! If anyone else spots misspelled words in my post, please don't tell me. You can laugh at them if you want, but it might come back at you a little later on down the thread!

Posted by NoSugar (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 8:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks Nov. amazing we agree again. Ms. Knight, I again commend you for standing up for what is right. I hope that maybe this teacher has learned her lesson. She likely thinks that she did nothing wrong because she believes her intentions were good, and maybe from her perspective they were. One problem I have with all of this is that Obama supporters cannot believe those of us who did not support him only did not because of his race, not because we disagree with his beliefs. In my home we teach our children and the others we care for to get informed and make their decisions based on the information they find and how they feel about it. We had discussions with children ranging from ages 10-15, each had different views on the candidates, some were influenced by adults and some were just their own personal beliefs. We try to support that by presenting information about both sides and asking them thought provoking questions. I know at least one teacher at CIS handled her classes in the same way and it is just a shame that your childs teacher didnt use the same good judgement. I do hope the BOE takes notice of this incident and reprimands accordingly. I know there has been some negative banter among students at CCHS about the election also. I pray it will settle down and not get out of hand. I am trying very hard to lead my children in the right direction and help them send the message that votes should be based on a candidates plan, history and beliefs and anyone that makes their decision on anything else is only voting in a popularity contest.

Posted by Kahleeka (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why don't you let us know the email address of the Principal and the name of the teacher so we can voice our complaint!

Thanks.

Posted by NoSugar (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

All email addresses of each schools faculty can be found on the Chilton County BOE website.

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm not sure what the e-mail address is right off hand, and the teacher will probably not even have to be named by now. I think this has become quite the public knowlege. I work in a convenience store and I have had people coming in to show me support for the last 2 days. The teacher's name is Mrs. Smith. I think I have ruffled more than a few feathers with this article. 99% of the feathers were ruffled in my son's defense. People have called me to let me know that they have called radio stations and news channels to let them know just what has happened and how inappropriate the whole situation was. Most seem to think that this has to be handled with some form of discipline. They say that if the children were going to be punished if they had chose not to write the letter, then the teacher should be punished for making them write it.
I have put that part of it in God's hands. I am not to judge on how anyone should be punished or not punished. I would still like an apology to the students. I guess I will wait and see if that happens.
I honestly hope that no other teacher's use their authority to intimidate any other student into any similar situation. Respect is given where respect is due. I am sorry to say that I lost a lot of respect for a teacher that I thought pretty highly of before. I am not, nor will I ever be a racist person. One bad apple doesn't spoil the tree. Please undestand that this is NOT a racial issue, it is a Christian/American issue. I have always taught my children to be color-blind. I think that this is necessary in order for the world to survive as God intended it to. I don't care if my children bring home pink children with green polka-dots, as long as it is not a contagious disease, they are welcome at our home anytime. I just don't like anyone to force their issues on someone who doesn't share the same belief, children as well as adults. When it comes to my children, I will be the first to admit, I am like a Cobra snake. Don't mess with my children, or I promise, I will strike and lunge for the fatal bite. My family has been through a lot and I will do everything within my God-given power to keep them safe. I trust any of you would do the same. I WILL NOT tolerate anyone making them uncomfortable or intimidated for their own personal satisfaction. And this is where I stand! I am praying for the apology, it's the morally right thing to do. To say that you are sorry is one of the hardest things to do for a human being, but when you are wrong, isn't it expected? Yes, and I think that she should be no exception. Thanks

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I almost forgot......To all of our military here and gone, God Bless You and Yours. Thank you for fighting for the freedom that I am speaking of. Thank you for dedicating your time and putting your life on the front line to ensure that we will always have these freedoms. It's like they say, freedom doesn't come without a price. Thank you for paying that price for us. Thank you God for paying the ultimate price. Thanks and may you have a wonderful Veterans Day!

Posted by Lilin31 (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You know the sad thing is, nothing will be done to this teacher. As parents of children in the school system we no longer have a voice really. It is scary to think that my child might be forced to do something like this in the future. I will not throw up any insults in this, but I do agree with Chilton on the race war. Its not all blacks who are doing it, but there sure are some of them who have turned real cocky and lord have mercy if a white person should say something about it, we're racist. I'm sick of it all. Oh well nothing can be done but sit back and watch them make fools of themselves!

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I want to thank the Advertiser for offering this opinion forum. This has been a great way to voice our opinions and to get news making situations out into the public. If we had not had this forum, this matter might have never come into light. This was probably a teacher with no ill intentions, however, judging by the comments posted on this thread, it is viewed, at the least, contraversal.
D Knight, most parents will strike like a cobra when it comes to their own children. As adults, if we have children or not, it is up to us to look after our little future leaders. You never know one just might be our PRESIDENT one day!

Posted by enuff (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 8:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I find this very upsetting that we quoat the bible in these passages but the things that are disscused to me are totally against the word of God. What ever happened to love your neighbors. I understand how we parents tend to come to the defense of our kids. I do not think that Ms Smith is the only teacher at the school displaying their polical stance. My sister said her little girl came home saying that her freind would not play with her because she was an Obama supporter. This took place because the teacher told the class that Obama was muslim and it was muslims that attached America on 9/11. This is the way I feel everyone will have there own belief of who and what they stand for. School is the wrong place to give your opinon to thousands of very impressioable children. Because of what this teacher the freinds my niec had before the election she no longer have. What needed to happen is if our teachers can teach our kids to read they might want to try it there self because if you read the bio of Obama you will find that he is Christian and his kids were baptised as Christians. The problem with America is that parents tend to get in the way of kids changing the way we should really be in America. Think about it we most of us were kids we played on the playground with kids of different race, religion, size, and handcaps. At this age we are doing what God want us to be like as Adults, but it is our own prejudices that mold our kids to look at color, size, religon, and anything else we hate as adults. If you have a problem with someone you beleive is someone other than you see do a back ground check use some of this biblical knowledge and speak on the things you know to be true or we as a people will never get to the place a true Christian should be. I am very sad that my kid have still got to go through the same things I did as a kid. Stop America As it Says In The BiBle ' LET NO MAN WHO IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE FIRST STONE' We adults need to fix our life before we mislead the next generation of leaders.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 12:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

enuff- If a teacher did in fact tell her class that Obama was a muslin, you or your sister should have discussed it with the teacher. First of all he says he is a christian, though, many including myself ,question his christian beliefs based on the racial hatred coming from his preacher of 20+ years. The same preacher you mentioned that baptised his daughters.
You stated , teachers should practice reading, by reading Obama's bio. In my opinion, there are lots of other books, that I would rather "practice reading".
I re-read your comment and I think you misunderstand the concerns of Ms. Knight. In no way was this a racial issue for her. Her concerns was the assignment and the fact that the teacher used intimidation against the class.
I do not trust Obama because of the people he surrounded himself with over the last two decades. I do not care what his book may say or what he has stood before the world and promised. Ever heard of a man from Germany named Hitler? He promised good things too and had thousands of supporters. I'm not saying Obama is a Hitler but America knows so little about this man and now he is about to become our leader. You talked about adults passing their prejudices on to their children.The parents have a right to to teach their children their morals and values. A teacher is to teach our children how to read and right not to teach their political views.

Posted by jeffdavis (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well for crying out loud, people, let's all write to this school and bombard them with our disgust. Otherwise this Nazification of our children will continue. That teacher should be cautioned for inappropriate behaviour.

Here's the address -

Dennis Cobb, Principal
Mark Stephenson, Assistant Principal

Clanton Intermediate School
825 Temple Road
Clanton, AL 35045

Phone: 205.280.2790
Fax: 205.280.2795

Emails:
4th Grade teachers:(the culprit is one of these):
mailto:lmBrown@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:ardeamues@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:jmcgriff@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:ljporter@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:lyrussell@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:psmith@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:mturner@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:dvelasquez@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:abwyatt@chilton.k12.al.us

Office staff:
mailto:mbrown@chilton.k12.al.us
mailto:wterri@chilton.k12.al.us

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 15, 2008 at 10:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

enuff, I don't suppose that you read the entire story and comments. I have told everyone over and over that this was not a racial issue for me. It was all about every American's constitutional rights. It really doesn't have anything to do with the Obama/McCain issue. It has to do with my child being denied his right to freedom of speech, as the title of the article says. Ms. Smith was the only teacher that required this assignment. I'm sure some of the other teachers voiced their opinions and I'm in no way saying that they should have done that. I don't believe that anyone should try and force someone to believe the same thing that they do. You as much as anyone should understand my frustration. Our situations are much the same. Please re-read the article and MY comments and then send your revised opinion. Thanks!

Posted by enuff (anonymous) on November 16, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First DK and CCOF I think this whole thing got blown out of perportions. It started with a mom being concerned that her child was being asked to do something he did not beleive in. We can go around and around about a subject that will only grow. Because if we start talking about what is said in most churches by a pastor then that can get very broad. Nothing has even been mention about the church Sarah Palin attended where the pastor was praying over her to protect her and her family from witches. I am not condoning anything said by Pastor Wright in that short sound bite. I just feel if we crateic one we should do it for all, but that would be judging and it says in the Bible that there will be only one judgment day and one judge. I mean for goodness sake a Pastor that supported McCain got on public TV with McCain at his side and bashed the jews. But the only one being talked about when it comes to his past affileations is Obama. We as a people tend to over look the bad in the people want to be perfect the only problem is there is no man or woman on the earth perfect. We all fall down it is how we respond when we get up. I would bet if everyone of us looked at ourself before we cast judgment our action would be different. I am not going to run to the defense of my children on every issue because the fact remains everyone has an opinion on everything and it will not always coninside with your belief or way of thinking that's what makes this such a great country. But we as Americans should all come together right now because our children need to be told the truth, we will not always be there to protect them. DK I do understand about your child and even though my sister did not react in that manner does not make one right and the other wrong. Lets start to show our childern that as a people even when we disagree we can still come together and raise them to take their place in the great nation of ours. Hug all of our children and keep them safe more importantly I will be my neighbors keeper.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 16, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Enuf, What is your point? After reading your post,I am unclear about why you have a problem. Is it because DK complained about the assignment or because she and her son didn't support Obama?
You say your sister's daughters teacher needed to learn to read and could do say by reading Obama's bio. It sounds like you are sounding off because she too was not an Obama supporter. The issue raised was the assignment .The teacher did wrong by giving this assignment. A teacher should not threaten to send students to the principal just because their opinions differ from their's. What if the assignment was for the students to write to MCCAIN and express that they wished Obama had lost? I believe your attitude would be different. This issue has been resolved and I for one do not think Ms. Smith was doing this mean spirited. DK was not being mean spirited by supporting her child. With that being said, Obama is our President Elect. It doesn't matter if we voted for him or not. I pray he is the best we've ever had, however, by what I know about him, I have my concerns. And No ,I did not and I do not intend to read his bio. He supports stem cell research, partial birth abortion and he will not support an amendment to the Constitution defining marriage as man and woman. If I agreed with everything else about him, those three issues, for me, would prevent me from supporting him. You say we do not have the right to judge others. You are right, God only will do that. Judging someone's actions is not the same as judging their soul.
One last thought, teaching our children how to come together with people who disagree is one thing, teaching them to compromise their moral convictions is another. In this case, DK supported her child by confronting the issue that was of concern to her 9 year old. For that alone, I say, good job DK-- and keep paying attention to the things your children do and say!!CCOF

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on November 17, 2008 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

enuff: Your posts are so convoluted and irrational as to be uncomprehensible. What Ms. Knight's son's teacher did was wrong and she should be disciplined. What you say happened in your neice's class was wrong and the situation should be corrected. I will be surprised if anything will be done in either case, though. Either way, your post is very hard to follow.

dknight: Has there been any acknowledgement by the teacher that what she did was wrong, or any movement by the BOE to disciplne her in any way?

Posted by Likeitreallymatters (anonymous) on November 20, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My goodness! There are some nuts in this town. The teacher made a stupid mistake. The fact is that if it had been the other way around, most of you would be all for it. Deny it if you like, but you can't lie to yourself. You know it to be true. The teacher should have known better than to raise such a personal issue in a town full of bigots and hypocrites. But maybe that is just what she intended to do. Maybe she set out to open up a dialogue about how people really feel, that is honest and unfiltered. But how would I know, it's not like I am her or anything.

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 20, 2008 at 7:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Likeit---- If you had read all of the post, you would see most of us said it wouldn't matter if it were the other way around. The assignment was wrong! Bigots and Hypocrites? Why the names? The fact is if a white teacher had told the students to write a "Love Letter" to McCain , racist comments would have went flying. This was not a RACIAL issue. Many people did not support him because they didn't support his ideas. A teacher should not give her political views to a group of 4th graders.

If the teacher used her nine and ten year old students to open a dialogue,(as you suggested), then she should be FIRED, PERIOD. -- CCOF

Posted by act123 (anonymous) on November 21, 2008 at 1:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well I hate to tell all of you this but it is not only going on in the CIS but also The Middle school and especially Clanton High School... And whoever said that nothing will be done well your right... I had a situation and nothing was done...

Posted by CCOF (anonymous) on November 21, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This forum proves that many people feel like something should be done about what is going on. Want to know why nothing is being done? We don't like to "rock the boat" in a small town. This is not going to change if we choose to keep it in this blog. Thank God, we are the Majority in this county and in this state. If we let our guard down, our children will be subject to the teachings of the liberal MINORITY. Teachers and leaders play such a big part in the way our children see the world. We can't let that happen here or we soon will be facing issues, with our own children, that we are fighting against!

Posted by dknight (anonymous) on November 24, 2008 at 7:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Likeit really matters- First of all...it does really matter! These are our children, our future. EVERYTHING my children do, matters to me. Yes, this teacher did make a stupid mistake...a very stupid mistake. I just wish she would have been adult enough to admit it. Isn't that what we are teaching our children? If you are wrong then you should admit it. I completely agree with CCOF...If this teacher used my child or any other child for that matter, then she should be terminated immediately! You shouldn't use anyone to get your opinions voiced. Don't be scared. Do it yourself! If someone has that strong of an opinion, then you should be strong enough to back that opinion up. I feel quite sure that I know who you are and the fact that you would get on here and make light of such a stupid mistake just fires me right back up. I had begun to move past this and think that maybe, just maybe, there was too much shame to admit that a mistake was made. I was beginning to try and understand that. I cannot believe that you wonder what is wrong with "us". What is wrong with you? That seems to be real question. As we learned in the election....Majority rules! Correct? Out of 92 comments, you are only the 2nd comment that is even semi-negative. Even the Obama supporters can understand my point. I was in total support of one of my friend's going to the school when their teacher was "bashing" Obama. I think that teachers should keep their opinions out of the classrooms and quit forcing them on OUR children. So, saying that...NO, had the shoe been on the other foot, it would still not be right!!!! Again read the article and my comments. It's not about the outcome of the election, it's not about racial matters, and it's not about Obama or McCain. It is STRICTLY about constitutional rights, not only for adults, but for children also!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm not sure why I have been going on and on to you....It's not like you're her or anything, Right?
Diane Knight

Posted by lovemygrands (anonymous) on November 29, 2008 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here is a very late post to this debate. I wish I'd seen it sooner. I believe in free speech but not in trampling over others' rights to obtain it. It is shameful that our children are taught only what is viewed as politically correct - and who makes that determination? - while huge gaps are left in their basic education. I am underwhelmed with the standards of our schools, leaving many of our country's children woefully unprepared for higher education, or for the workforce. In the meantime, we are already "subjects" to an ever-increasing government. While online, all of you should do a search on Thomas Jefferson and read some of his quotes, there are especially relevant ones that are not that well-known. Jefferson addressed many of the issues that trouble our country today, not the least of which is TOO MUCH GOVERNMENT, as well as making commentary on our very slanted media. Here's the URL to one "quotes" pages. Hope you'll read up on how our forefathers wanted this country to be, as opposed to what it has become. http://www.quotationspage.com/

Posted by Likeitreallymatters (anonymous) on December 1, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Testy! Testy! Me thinks I hit a nerve.

Posted by hometowner (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Likeit: If you really are the teacher, why would you use your position in the classroom to start a debate across the county on politics and race? Those children that you are fortunate enough to be allowed to teach and have an influence on their lives deserve better than that. When given an opportunity to enrich a child's life, you should cherish it with all your heart. White, black, red or yellow: TAKE OUT THE COLOR and just do your job. If you are not that teacher, I apologize.